Talent only gets you so far in Rugby League, but when ambition matches the ability it's hard not to find anything but success.
For Tariq Sims, having battled through two broken legs that threatened to derail his entire career, his persistence and perseverance has now been rewarded. The Dragons forward was today named to make his Origin debut on Wednesday, 11 July.
His experience throughout the first two camps has been invaluable under new coach Brad Fittler and will undoubtedly prove his Origin credentials when he becomes the 13th player in the NSW squad to make their debut in the 2018 series.
"One of the hardest things to do is to get yourself physically and mentally prepared before a game then to warm up and get told to hit the showers,' Sims said.
"[It's hard] when you have to sit back and watch the boys and you just want to be out there and helping them.
"[But] I've loved my time the boys helping prepare them for the first two games and I'm just lucky now.
"I'm someone who likes to play with a lot of pride and passion and wear my heart on my sleeve."
Knocking on the door of Origin selection ever since his NRL debut with the Cowboys in 2011, with his passion and aggression two of his most admirable qualities, Sims' versatility was a significant advantage as Fittler sweats on the fitness of Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues Captain Boyd Cordner.
But having established a reputation as one of Rugby League's most feared back-rowers with his brutally-absorbing defensive efforts this season, Sims is clear on what he needs to bring to the side as NSW look to claim their first 3-0 clean sweep since 2000.
"I've got a fair idea of what I need to do and what I need to bring to the team," he said.
"I know what to expect and I know what's needed come out and do my job - so whether it be on the edge or be in the middle, I'm ready."
With the series already won after NSW's defiant 18-14 victory in Game Two, Fittler knows that his side will be no short of motivation when they head into enemy territory on Wednesday week.
I'm someone who likes to play with a lot of pride and passion and wear my heart on my sleeve.
Tariq Sims
And after being a part of NSW's two most recent clean sweeps - 1996 and 2000 - the coach knows exactly the type of mentality that's required to continue their dominance. Fittler strongly believes that Sims typifies the 'Whatever It Takes' mantra that will help galvanise success in Game Three.
"Tariq has been fantastic he's probably been the best left back-rower this year," Fittler said. "His efforts as 18th man have been incredible, so he deserves his spot.
"[He] has been part of this team from the start and has been the best left back-rower this year in the competition, so something I really wanted to do was give him a run. He's an intense bloke so he'll do a good job."
